Tawang is a quaint and picture-perfect town of Arunachal Pradesh, perched amid the Himalayas at an altitude of 10,000 feet, it is the “new Ladakh” for bikers. Bestowed with snow-capped mountains, valleys, lakes, and dense forests, the places to visit in Tawang are best known for its serenity and spellbinding views. If you are looking for a holiday for an absolute thrill and mental peace, take a trip to Tawang.
20 Best Places to Visit in Tawang
Here is a list of the best places to visit in Tawang that you cannot miss out on your trip to Arunachal Pradesh. They are a beautiful combination of lakes, passes, waterfalls and monasteries. Now one thing about all the Tawang tourist places is common throughout. They are great for gathering some much needed peace you deserve out of your busy life. Check the whole list out below:
1. Sela Pass
Sela Pass is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the World. This is the road that connects Tawang with Guwahati in Assam and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and valleys in Arunachal Pradesh. Located near Sela Lake, Sela Pass is certainly one of the must-visit places to see in Tawang for nature lovers and adventure junkies. Summer and spring is the ideal time to visit Sela Pass, as roads are usually blocked during winter months due to heavy snowfall.
Location: Arunachal Pradesh, India
Best Time To Visit: October, November, March -May
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2. Tibetan Settlement Market
The local market of Tawang which is otherwise known as Vihara market caters to the local populace for all their exotic needs. The place has many small shops including roadside shacks which are covered with eateries and shops. The market sells multiple souvenirs that you may buy for as memorabilia including gift items, traditional clothes, porcelain crockery, handicrafts, ornaments, teapots, etc. This would give you one of the best shopping opportunities in Tawang.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: All throughout the year
3. Thingbu Hot Spring
The village of Thingbu is lucky enough to have an exotic experience for travelers in the region. The beautiful and awesome hot springs from the Mago Chu river are a perfect place to spend your winters. The trip to these hot springs takes some time from Tawang – roughly 3 and half hours yet the rejuvenation factor is too great to skip this.
Location: Nguikteng, Tawang
Best Time To Visit: November to March
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4. Gyangong Ani Gompa
Welcome to another beautiful and peaceful region in the midst of Tawang and that is the Gyangong Ani Gompa. With about 50 nuns in the premises, the Gompa is one of the smallest Buddhist monasteries in Tawang valley. Visiting this Gompa is via a beautiful walk spanning about 1.5 km from the Sonam Tsomu Homestay, one of the best homestays in Tawang.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: November to March
5. Gorsam Chorten
The Gorsam Chorten is a Buddhist temple located in the hidden paradise of Zemithang village. Needless to say about the beauty of the temple surroundings, visit here for a truly tranquil experience. The temple has a 186 feet base with a height of 93 feet modeled after the Boudhanath stupa of Nepal. To observe the lunar calendar, devotees flock in huge numbers during the Gorzam Kora festival.
Location: Cona County, Zemithang, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: September to November, February to April
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6. Banggachhang Lake
Banggachhang – remember this name as one of the most remote places in India. Now there is another reason to visit this absolutely serene creation of mother nature, the Banggachhang Lake. And let’s not forget the Banggachhang Gompa located close by. The lake is accessible via a road which stays closed mostly during winters due to snowfall. Although the journey is thoroughly enjoyable and you will come across some beautiful sceneries.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time To Visit: April to July
7. Shonga-Tser Lake
Image Source Surrounded by picturesque opulent valleys and snow-capped mountains, Shonga-tser Lake is among the most popular tourist places in Tawang. This was originally a cattle grazing ground, which transformed to a lake after a flash flood during a massive earthquake in 1950. The famous Bollywood movie Koyla, starring Madhuri Dikshit was shot here, hence this place is popularly known as ‘Madhuri Lake’.
Location: Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Best Time To Visit: Summer Months (March To June)
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8. Narurang Falls
Image Source Narurang Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Arunachal Pradesh originates from a river by the same name. It is aan amazing spot in Tawang, dropping down from 100 metre through multiple steps. Located en route Tawang to Zeminthang, this waterfall is a serene and scenic place, perfect for day trips. Also known as Jang Falls, this gorgeous waterfall is surrounded by luxuriant forests and the beauty and serenity have made it one of the top-rated places to visit in Tawang. A hydel power station is located just beside the waterfall, which is open to tourists.
Location: Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Best Time To Visit: July To September
9. Bumla Pass
Image Source Bumla Pass connects India with China and is counted as one of the most sought-after places to see in Tawang. The best time to visit this place is from May to October, as for rest of the moths, Bumla Pass remains frozen. The pass at 16000 feet is believed and honored to be as the passage which His Holiness Dalai Lama took to escape from Tibet to India.
Location: Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Best Time To Visit: October To May
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10. Pankang Teng Tso Lake
Best Time To Visit: April To October
11. Gorichen Peak
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12. Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls
Image Source Without a doubt, Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls is another one of best places to visit in Tawang, cascading down from 100 feet. The waterfall is a popular tourist spot in Tawang and visited by locals and tourists alike. Gushing amid lush green forests, Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls creates a crystal-clear plunge pool at the bottom and people visiting this waterfall in Arunachal Pradesh dip their feet and swim to rejuvenate and invigorate.
Best Time To Visit: Summer and Monsoon Season
13. Tawang Monastery
Image Source Established by Mera Lama Lodre Gyasto in the 17th century, Tawang Monastery is the largest Buddhist monasteries in India and the second largest in Asia. Home to numerous young monks, this monastery is a hub of Buddhist learning and houses plenty of manuscripts, books, and artifacts. Also, the breath-taking views of the landscape and Tawang River, make the Tawang Monastery one of the best tourist places in Tawang.
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14. Tawang War Memorial
Image Source Overlooking the Tawang Chu valley, Tawang War Memorial is a huge 40 feet high structure, resembling a stupa. This multi-hued monument was built in loving memories of Indian soldiers, who sacrificed their lives for the country during Indo-Sino war. Take steep steps to reach the memorial and read the names of 2420 such soldiers, engraved in granite plates there. Definitely, one of the places to visit in Tawang without fail. This is amongst the best things to see in Tawang.
Best Time To Visit: April, May and June
15. Jaswant Garh
Image Source One of the offbeat places to see in Tawang, Jaswant Garh is surely one of the most beautiful ones. Built-in fond memories of Jaswant Singh Rawat, this memorial is located between Sela Pass and Tawang town. Jaswant Singh Rawat was a member of the Indian army, who fought a lone battle for 3 days with Chinese invaders during Indo-China war in 1962. To salute his undying spirit and courage, Jaswant Garh was raised by the local people, which is presently a famous tourist attraction in Tawang.
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16. Urgelling Gompa
Image Source Believed to be the birthplace of his Holiness the 6th Dalai Lama, this monastery was built around the 14th century. Situated at a distance of 3kms from the main town of Tawang, this Gompa is considered to be one of the peaceful places to visit in Tawang. This is the place for taking a respite from the troubles of life, this Gompa splendid beauty and marvelous architecture makes a great place for enjoying a relaxing break.
17. Samten Yongcha Monastery
Image Courtesy This is one of the famous monasteries which stands out among one of the best places to visit in Tawang. Located at the hilltop, the Samten Yongcha Monastery is known for its surreal views and lush-greenery. The main highlight of the monastery is the golden statue of Lord Buddha along with many other things like carvings, structures, Buddhist artefacts. This monastery is a home to many monks and also locals who want to learn more about the culture and traditions of this place.
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18. Geshila Peak
Image Source This is known as the highest peak in Tawang which is often known for the amazing ambience and also the lush-greenery. For the locals, this peak is considered the guardian angel of Tawang. This is one of the best tourist places in Tawang which is often visited by people for worshipping and seeking blessings. Alongside that people also come to this place to enjoy a relaxing time amidst the surreal beauty of nature.
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19. Nagula Lake
Image Courtesy This is a high altitude lake which is considered as one of the best among the Tawang sightseeing. Surrounded by lush-greenery and snow-peaked mountains, this lake is a treat to the eyes for nature lovers. As it is located close to the border, there is a heavy military presence around the location but still it doesn’t stop the tourists from visiting this place at least once.
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20. Taktsang Gompa
Image Source You must have heard of Taktsang Monastery in Bhutan but were you aware of the fact that there is a same place in Arunachal Pradesh also? Yes, literally translating into Tiger’s Den, this place is perched on a cliff at a height of around 13,000 feet and is considered as the best place to visit in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. A glance from such a height will make you fall in love with this place. The history of this Taktsang Gompa can be dated back to the 8th century when the well-renowned Guru Padmasambhava visited there. Surrounded by majestic mountains and thick forest, the place is always teeming with religious people. Make sure that you are carrying your camera with you.
Now, that you know about the heavenly places to visit in Tawang for solemn peace and relaxation, finalize the plan for a surreal vacation there. Plan your vacation to Arunachal Pradesh and enjoy the magnificent sceneries of this beautiful state. For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Tawang
How many days are enough for Tawang?
You can plan a stay for 5 to 8 days in Tawang for an ultimate experience. The duration of your trip also depends upon the preferences and experiences you are seeking on a holiday.
Which month is best for Tawang?
The summer season and onset of monsoon are considered to be the best time to visit Tawang. Giving travellers an opportunity to sightsee and travel around town without any hindrances, this weather in Tawang is all about pleasant and comfortable weather. March to June and September-October are considered to be the months to visit Tawang.
Is it safe to visit Tawang during Covid times?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit Tawang, however, you need to follow the travel advisory mentioned by the authorities, along with taking the required safety measures. Make sure that you have completed both the doses of vaccinations and get yourself tested at least 48 hours before your departure. You need to follow all the travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities.
What is special in Tawang?
Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is known for its Buddhist monastery which is approximately 400 years old. This Buddhist monastery is of utmost significance for a pilgrimage and is also one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries that are situated in India. Other than being an important landmark for devotees, this monastery also exhibits some awe-inspiring views and natural beauty that takes travellers in a trance.
Where is Tawang located?
Sitting in the east of Bhutan, Tawang is a small town located in the North-Eastern state of India, Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang is situated at an elevation of around 3,048 meters or 10,000 ft.
How do I get to Tawang?
Tawang is easily accessible to the surrounding towns by road. One such town happens to be Guwahati which blankets a domestic airport that is well-connected with all the major cities of the country via air mode of transport. The airport is located approximately 4 hours away from Tawang and one can hire a private cab to reach Tawang. Guwahati is also home to an international airport that is located around 480 kilometres from Tawang.
Does it snow in Tawang?
Yes, Tawang does experience snowfall and looks nothing less than a winter fairytale land when covered in white. The snow usually commences from the first week of November and lasts until May.
What are the best places to visit in Tawang?
Sela Pass, Tibetan Settlement Market, Thingbu Hot Spring, Gyangong Ani Gompa, Gorsam Chorten, Banggachhang Lake, Shonga-Tser Lake, Narurang Falls, Bumla Pass, Panjang Teng Tso Lake, Gorichen Peak, Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls, Tawang Monastery, Tawang War Memorial, Jaswant Garh, etc. are the best places to visit in Tawang and the surrounding region.
Where can I go shopping in Tawang?
Tawang has three markets, that are the Old Market, Nehru Market and New Market. The Old Market is the biggest one and has multiple shops offering handicrafts, general goods, clothing and apparel, medical stores etc. This market remains closed on Tuesdays, while Nehru market and New Market are closed on Wednesdays and Saturdays respectively.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
